Safety mechanism for firearms

ABSTRACT

A method and apparatus for discharge blocking device compatible with a firearm having a magazine housing and a trigger bar, the discharge blocking device comprising, a cover, having a shape compatible with the magazine housing, abase, covering a locking mechanism, and a locking element, at least partially accommodated in a channel inside the cover, wherein the locking element is configured to allow movement within the channel between locked and unlocked states in order to allow blocking the trigger bar of the firearm, and wherein the locking element is at least partially accommodated inside the wall of the cover and configured to at least partially rotate between locked and unlocked states about an axis that is aligned with the longitudinal dimension of the cover, in order to allow blocking the trigger bar of the firearm with the blocking segment.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to firearms. More particularly, the present invention relates to a safety magazine for various firearms.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of accidental, negligent or unauthorized discharge from various firearms, particularly handguns. Such incidents typically occur when the trigger of the firearm is deliberately pulled for a purpose other than shooting, such as dry-fire practice, demonstration or function testing, but the ammunition is unintentionally left in the chamber. Unintentionally leaving a firearm loaded is more likely to occur when the individual handling the gun is poorly trained, and perhaps also with removable-magazine-fed firearms (as the magazine may be removed, giving an unloaded appearance even when a round remains chambered). Since most handguns are designed such that the magazine constantly remains inside, thus keeping the handgun constantly loaded, such accidental or otherwise undesired or unauthorized discharge is more likely to occur.

A second common cause of negligent discharge is placement by the gun-handler of his/her finger on the trigger before deciding to shoot. With the finger so positioned, many activities may cause the finger to compress the trigger unintentionally. For example, if one attempts to holster the firearm with finger on trigger, the holster edge might drive the finger onto the trigger, and discharge is likely.

Accidental discharges not involving a trigger-pull can also occur if the firearm is mechanically unsound: due to poor maintenance, abuse and/or the use of defective ammunition in the gun, may all lead to breakage.

Furthermore, recently there has been a sharp increase in misuse of firearms with unauthorized users firing (for fun or by accident), and particularly youngsters using their parents' firearms. Such incidents cause many injuries (and sometimes fatalities) since there are no means to prevent other people from using a gun of an authorized user.

It would, therefore, be advantageous to provide safety means for firearms so as to prevent unintentional and/or unauthorized firing and/or accidental discharge.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

There is thus provided, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention, a discharge blocking device compatible with a firearm having a magazine housing and a trigger bar, the discharge blocking device including a cover, having a shape compatible with the magazine housing, a base, covering a locking mechanism, and a locking element, at least partially accommodated in a channel inside the cover. In some embodiments, the locking element is configured to allow movement within the channel between locked and unlocked states in order to allow blocking the trigger bar of the firearm.

In some embodiments, the locking element is adapted to push the trigger bar into locked position during transition from unlocked state to locked state. In some embodiments, the discharge blocking device further includes a lead screw that is configured to allow lateral movement of the locking element upon rotation of the lead screw. In some embodiments, the cover is configured to couple with the magazine housing.

In some embodiments, the discharge blocking device further includes a positioning lever configured to allow indication upon accommodation of the discharge blocking device within the magazine housing. In some embodiments, the discharge blocking device further includes a dedicated space for accommodation of bullets.

In some embodiments, the discharge blocking device further includes a wedge configured to allow locking the discharge blocking device to the magazine housing. In some embodiments, the discharge blocking device further includes at least one user identification unit. In some embodiments, the user identification unit includes biometric identification. In some embodiments, the wedge is movable by movement of the locking element.

In some embodiments, the discharge blocking device further includes a mechanical identification override device. In some embodiments, the locking element is configured to lock the device to the firearm in a locked state.

There is thus provided, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention, a method for locking a magazine to a firearm and preventing accidental discharge, the firearm having a magazine housing and a trigger bar, and the method including inserting a cover of the magazine into the magazine housing, and engaging a locking element of the magazine with the trigger bar. In some embodiments, the locking element is configured to allow blocking the trigger bar upon engagement therewith.

There is thus provided, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention, a discharge blocking device compatible with a firearm having a magazine housing and a trigger bar, the discharge blocking device including a cover, having a shape compatible with the magazine housing, a base, covering a locking mechanism, and a rotating locking element, having a blocking segment and at least partially accommodated inside the wall of the cover. In some embodiments, the rotating locking element is configured to at least partially rotate between locked and unlocked states about an axis that is aligned with the longitudinal dimension of the cover, in order to allow blocking the trigger bar of the firearm with the blocking segment.

In some embodiments, the locking element is configured to lock the device to the firearm in a locked state. In some embodiments, the rotating locking element includes a rotating projection that is configured to rotate with rotation of the rotating locking element, and also configured to project from the cover to block the trigger bar. In some embodiments, the rotating locking element includes a bottom portion operably coupled to a locking mechanism within the base, and wherein movement of the bottom portion rotates the rotating locking element.

In some embodiments, the base includes at least one gear coupled to a motor, and wherein the at least one gear is capable of moving the bottom portion between locked and unlocked states. In some embodiments, the cover is configured to couple with the magazine housing. In some embodiments, the discharge blocking device further includes a positioning switch configured to allow indication upon accommodation of the discharge blocking device within the magazine housing.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The subject matter regarded as the invention is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the concluding portion of the specification. The invention, however, both as to organization and method of operation, together with objects, features, and advantages thereof, may best be understood by reference to the following detailed description when read with the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1A schematically illustrates a right perspective view of a discharge blocking device, according to some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 1B schematically illustrates a left side cross-sectional view of the discharge blocking device, according to some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 2A schematically illustrates a left side partial cross-sectional view of the discharge blocking device in a locked state, according to some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 2B schematically illustrates a left side partial cross-sectional view of the discharge blocking device in an unlocked state, according to some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 3A schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of the discharge blocking device, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 3B schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of the base of the discharge blocking device, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 4A schematically illustrates a perspective view of the discharge blocking device accommodated in a magazine housing of a firearm, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 4B schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of the discharge blocking device accommodated in the magazine housing of a firearm, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 5A schematically illustrates a right perspective view of a rotating element discharge blocking device, according to some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 5B schematically illustrates a left side view of the rotating element discharge blocking device, according to some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 6A schematically illustrates a right side cross-sectional view of the rotating element discharge blocking device, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 6B schematically illustrates a left side cross-sectional view of the rotating element discharge blocking device, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 7A schematically illustrate a partial perspective view of the rotating element discharge blocking device adjacent to a trigger bar in a locked mode, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 7B schematically illustrate a partial perspective view of the rotating element discharge blocking device adjacent to a trigger bar in an unlocked mode, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 8 schematically illustrate a cross-sectional view of rotating element discharge blocking device, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention; and

FIG. 9 shows a flow chart for a method of blocking discharge in a firearm, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.

It will be appreciated that, for simplicity and clarity of illustration, elements shown in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements may be exaggerated relative to other elements for clarity. Further, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the invention. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, and components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments of the invention.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 1A-1B, which show a discharge blocking device 100, according to some embodiments of the invention. FIG. 1A schematically illustrates a right perspective view (with respect to the shooting direction of the firearm) of a discharge blocking device 100, and FIG. 1B schematically illustrates a left side cross-sectional view of the discharge blocking device 100.

It is appreciated that discharge blocking device 100 (as a safety magazine) according to some embodiments of the invention is adapted to allow a user, operating a firearm, to block the discharge by having a safety mechanism (within the discharge blocking device) set in a locked mode, such that the discharge may be enabled only according to the selection by an authorized user with the safety mechanism. Therefore, in addition to the existing safety selector on the firearm, discharge blocking device 100 may provide further means for controlling the firing mode of the firearm (e.g., locked or unlocked mode), further described hereinafter.

Discharge blocking device 100 may include a cover 110 having a structure that is compatible with some commercially available magazines for firearms, for instance having a shape and dimensions corresponding to and adapted to be inserted into a magazine housing of, for example, a Glock® handgun. Discharge blocking device 100 may further include a base 120 that at least partially covers a safety mechanism that is configured to block the discharge.

In some embodiments, base 120 may have a shape protruding with respect to cover 110, such that easy gripping (of base 120) by a user operating the firearm may be allowed for insertion into and removal from the firearm. It is therefore appreciated that only with the base 120, the difference from commercially available magazines (for example, a Glock® handgun) may be observed, when the safety magazine is inserted into a firearm.

In some embodiments, cover 110 may have a top segment 130 that is configured to couple with the magazine housing in a compatible firearm (for example as shown in FIG. 4A). Top segment 130 may have an opening for insertion of cartridges therein (e.g., in a single column or stacked), such that the cartridge that is last inserted partially protrudes through top segment 130 in order to engage the firearm upon coupling with the magazine housing. Thus, operation similar to regular magazines for firearms may be enabled as discharge blocking device 100 provides accommodation of cartridges, and also engagement of these cartridges with the corresponding firearm upon coupling.

In some embodiments, cover 110 may further include a recess 180 that corresponds in shape to an external magazine catch 480 (as shown in FIGS. 4A-4B) in order to allow locking the position of discharge blocking device 100 within the magazine housing once the external magazine catch 480 is inserted thereto. Thus, cover 110 may provide features similar to commercially available firearm magazines, as well as enhanced features for blocking discharge upon the selection of an authorized user.

It may be appreciated that a locking element (or latch) 140, accommodated within discharge blocking device 100, may be configured to be capable of at least partially protruding from top segment 130 to block discharge of the firearm due to movement of element 140 from one (stowed) position to another (extended) position. In some embodiments, locking element 140 may be at least partially accommodated within a channel 114 inside cover 110. When discharge blocking device 100 is enabled (e.g., in an unlocked mode) the firearm may be immediately operated, with locking element 140 configured to move within channel 114 between locked and unlocked states. It is noted that the operation of locking element 140, for instance with movement within channel 114, may be configured to allow locking element 140 to protrude from discharge blocking device 100. Protrusion of locking element 140 may be performed in order to engage and/or block a compatible trigger bar of the firearm so as to push the trigger bar into a locked position during transition from unlocked state to locked state and thereby block the discharge.

According to some embodiments, a top portion 142 of locking element 140 may protrude from top segment 130, in order to allow top portion 142 to engage the trigger bar when locking element 140 is in a locked state and top portion 142 protrudes from top segment 130. It may be appreciated that protruding top portion 142 may prevent movement of the trigger bar rearwards, namely towards the back of the barrel of the firearm, and thereby may prevent and/or block the discharge, as further described hereinafter.

According to some embodiments, a side jag 144 of locking element 140 may protrude from channel 114 and be accommodated within volume 150 such that movement of locking element 140 within channel 114 may also move side jag 144 within volume 150 accordingly. Discharge blocking device 100 may further include a wedge 160 that may be built in into cover 110. In some embodiments, wedge 160 may at least partially protrude into volume 150 from a first end, for example when discharge blocking device 100 is in unlocked state. In some embodiments, wedge 160 may at least partially protrude from cover 110, through a compatible window 170, from a second end opposite to the first end, for example when discharge blocking device 100 is in a locked state. It may be appreciated that movement of locking element 140 from unlocked state to locked state (for example causing top portion 142 to protrude from top segment 130) may cause side jag 144 to move within volume 150 so as to engage the first end of wedge 160.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 2A-2B, which schematically illustrate a left side partial cross-sectional view of discharge blocking device 100 in locked and in unlocked states, respectively, according to some embodiments of the invention.

In some embodiments, wedge 160 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of side jag 144, such that movement of side jag 144 from unlocked state (e.g., as shown in FIG. 2B) to locked state (e.g., as shown in FIG. 2A) may at least partially push one end of wedge 160 outwardly from cover 110 in order to at least partially protrude the second end of wedge 160 from window 170, out of cover 110. Thus, in a locked state while top portion 142 may protrude from top segment 130 to engage and/or block the trigger bar, side jag 144 may move the second end of wedge 160 so as to at least partially protrude the second end of wedge 160 from window 170. It may be appreciated that wedge 160 protruding from window 170 may engage with magazine housing and thereby prevent the safety mechanism from being removed from the firearm. In some embodiments, top portion 142 may block movement of the trigger bar backwards at substantially the same time as wedge 160 blocks movement forwards. In some embodiments, wedge 160 protruding from window 170 may lock discharge blocking device 100 to the magazine housing and thereby prevent removal of the discharge blocking device 100, as further described hereinafter.

In some embodiments, in an unlocked state side jag 144 may move within volume 150 such that wedge 160 is not engaged to it, and thereby second end of wedge 160 may not engage the magazine housing (e.g., as shown in FIG. 4B). In some embodiments, wedge 160 may have a spring like effect (e.g., spring loaded) that may enable self-inward return towards volume 150 when not engaged by side jag 144.

Referring back to FIG. 1B, locking element 140 may further include a bottom portion 141 (e.g., on the opposite side of locking element 140 in respect of top portion 142) that may be in contact with a sensor 191 that is configured to detect movement of bottom portion 141 between locked and unlocked modes. For example, sensor 191 may be an optical sensor having an optical path that is blocked when locking element 140 is in unlocked mode. In some embodiments, sensor 191 may be operably coupled to a central controller 310 (e.g., a processor, denoted “PCB” in FIG. 3B) that is configured to electrically control the operation of discharge blocking device 100. In some embodiments, in case of electrical malfunction, manual operation of discharge blocking device 100 may also be possible, as further described hereinafter.

According to some embodiments, bottom portion 141 may be also in contact with a switching element 190 that is configured to allow switching between locked and unlocked modes. Switching element 190 may be operationally coupled to a motor 122 (e.g., accommodated within base 120) capable of electrically and/or mechanically moving locking element 140 (as further described hereinafter) between locked and unlocked modes. In some embodiments, switching element 190 may be of helical shape and/or include a lead screw, which is capable of translating rotational movement into linear movement, so as to allow rotational movement of switching element 190 to be translated into lateral movement of locking element 140. Thus, rotational movement of switching element 190 may move bottom portion 141 coupled thereto and thereby linearly move locking element 140 in channel 114 between locked and unlocked states. In some embodiments, if bottom portion 141 engages the bottom end of switching element 190, then discharge blocking device 100 is in “FIRE” mode and discharge is allowed, whereas if bottom portion 141 engages the top end of switching element 190, then discharge blocking device 100 is in “SAFE” mode (e.g., as shown in FIG. 1B) and discharge is prevented with blocking of the trigger bar.

According to some embodiments, discharge blocking device 100 may further include a user identification segment 121. User identification segment 121 may be operably coupled to the locking mechanism (e.g., inside base 120) within discharge blocking device 100 and thereby coupled to locking element 140 so as to disable the blocking, i.e. switch to “unlocked” mode upon identification of an authorized user. User identification segment 121 may include biometric user identification (e.g., fingerprint identification) unit, password identification means with a dedicated user interface, or any other identification means (for example buttons to be pressed by the user, for example for entering a secret buttons' sequence, and/or wireless communication means such as radio frequency or near field communication). In some embodiments, user identification segment 121 may further include storage of ID data for storing ID data of authorized users. In some embodiments, discharge blocking device 100 may further include at least one indicator that is configured to indicate the locking mode of discharge blocking device 100, e.g., “locked”, “unlocked”, “error”, etc. The user may control the mode of discharge (and thereby change the indication of the indicator) in order to change the mode of discharge blocking device 100, for instance by placing a finger on a fingerprint sensor and identifying via fingerprint in order to switch the device to an “unlocked” mode. In some embodiments, changing from “unlocked” to “locked” mode may be done automatically by the device when the safety device detects an insertion of safety device into magazine housing. It should be noted that user identification segment 121 and the at least one indicator may be electrically coupled to the locking mechanism, e.g., by means of controller 310, so as to allow control of the locking mode of discharge blocking device 100. In some embodiments, a central controller 310 (e.g., a processing unit, as shown in FIG. 3B) may control the operation of discharge blocking device. Specifically, controller, such as controller 310, may control switching between “locked” and “unlocked” modes based on input from user identification segment 121.

In some non-limiting embodiments, discharge blocking device 100 may further include a power storage unit, e.g., a battery, configured to provide power for the locking mechanism, so as to allow operation of the mechanical elements. In some embodiments, a battery status indicator may also be provided with the indicators. It is appreciated that, upon insertion into a magazine housing, discharge blocking device 100 may become automatically in a “locked” state with locking element 140 protruding and blocking the trigger bar of the firearm.

In some embodiments, the locking mechanism may further include a communication unit capable of sending and receiving wireless data (e.g., via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, or cellular networks). The communication unit may therefore allow a user to set conditions for the discharge blocking device to become locked or unlocked, as may be desired. For example, once the discharge blocking device detects data that indicates that the firearm is inside an authorized area (for instance data from a GPS device), then the locking is removed and the firearm may be used. Alternatively, a dedicated signal may be wirelessly received by the discharge blocking device such that a user may select that in a particular time the locking is removed, no matter who operates the firearm. For example, a training officer at the police academy may wirelessly remove the locking from multiple firearms that are scheduled for practice.

Reference is now made to FIG. 3A, which schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of discharge blocking device 100, wherein the cross-section plane is performed along imaginary dashed line 101 of FIG. 1A, according to some embodiments of the invention. Discharge blocking device 100 may include a space 270 covered by cover 110 and dedicated for accommodation of cartridges 70 (e.g., fourteen cartridges in a double row) as in a commercially available magazine. In some embodiments, the external structure of cover 110 may correspond to that of a commercially available magazine capable of accommodating cartridges (e.g., in a stacked column), such that, when discharge blocking safety mechanism is provided, for instance locking element 140 embedded into the wall of cover 110, cartridges may be accommodated within discharge blocking device 100. It is noted that discharge blocking device 100 may be operated both as a regular magazine, storing cartridges at dedicated space 270, such that the firearm can be used in the regular fashion, as well as be operated as a discharge blocking device that prevents unwanted (or unauthorized) use of firearm, when in locked mode.

Reference is now made to FIG. 3B, which schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of base 120, wherein the cross-section is carried out parallel to locking element 140, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, base 120 includes a positioning lever 300, embedded therein, which is initially in an “open” state and configured to detect accommodation of discharge blocking device 100 within the magazine housing. Positioning lever 300 may be configured to be capable of protruding from base 120, such that, upon insertion into the magazine housing of a firearm, positioning lever 300 may engage the inner wall of the magazine housing and be forced to move into base 120 (e.g., by means of a loaded spring). Upon accommodation within the magazine housing and detection thereof, positioning lever 300 may move back into base 120 and switch to a “closed” state. In some embodiments, at a “closed” state positioning lever 300 may engage a positioning sensor 350 that is configured to provide a signal (e.g., to central controller 310) corresponding to detected states.

It may be appreciated that positioning lever 300 may provide an initial locking mechanism, that may be configured to disable the operation of the firearm unless in “closed” state. In some embodiments, positioning lever 300 may be coupled to the positioning sensor 350 that is capable of electrically detecting change between “open” and “closed” states.

Upon switching to a “closed” state (i.e., detection of discharge blocking device 100 within the magazine housing) by positioning lever 300, locking element 140 may, according to embodiments of the present invention, be automatically operated to move to a “locked” mode and block the trigger bar of the firearm so as to block any discharge until the user switches to “unlocked” mode. For example, upon insertion into a magazine housing, positioning lever 300 may engage the inner wall of the magazine housing and be forced to move inwardly into base 120 to engage positioning sensor 350. Positioning sensor 350 may then send a signal to central controller 310 indicating that discharge blocking device 100 is in a “closed state” (e.g., within the magazine housing). This may cause control motor 122 to move locking element 140 to a “locked” position blocking the trigger bar. In some embodiments, motor 122 may be coupled to switching element 190 with movable gears such that movement of a first gear coupled to motor 122 may move second gear coupled to switching element 190.

It should be noted that, initially, positioning lever 300 may be in an “open” state and locking element 140 is in “unlocked” mode, such that, upon engagement with the magazine housing positioning lever 300 may switch to “closed” state and thereby locking element 140 moved to a “locked” mode. Thus, discharge blocking device 100 may automatically switch to “locked” mode and prevent discharge upon engagement with the magazine housing.

It may be appreciated that positioning lever 300 and wedge 160 protrude from the back side of cover 110 (adjacent to user identification segment 121), opposite to top portion 142, protruding from the frontal side of cover 110 (the side that points toward the barrel end when inserted into the firearm).

According to some embodiments, discharge blocking device 100 may further include a manual override segment 330 that is configured to allow a user to manually switch between locked and unlocked states, for instance when motor 122 is not responsive, when power source providing power to the control system is lost, and the like. In some embodiments, a user may operate manual override segment 330 using a dedicated key. In some embodiments, a user may connect an external device to control discharge blocking device 100 (e.g., via USB cable), and thereby control the controller, for example managing user settings or upgrading the software.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 4A-4B, which show the discharge blocking device 100 accommodated in a magazine housing of a compatible firearm 400, with top portion of firearm 400 removed. FIG. 4A schematically illustrates a perspective view of discharge blocking device 100 accommodated in the magazine housing of a firearm 400, and FIG. 4B schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of the same 120, according to some embodiments of the invention.

It may be appreciated that the user cannot squeeze the trigger to discharge the firearm (in a locked mode) since, upon insertion into magazine housing of firearm 400, locking element 140 may prevent any backward movement of trigger bar 440. In order to allow discharge, the user may change the state of discharge blocking device 100 from “locked” to “unlocked”, for example by using user identification segment 121 such that locking element 140 moves towards base 120 and no longer protrudes from the discharge blocking device 100, and then trigger bar 440 may be operated to discharge the firearm 400.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 5A-5B, which show a rotating element discharge blocking device 500 in a locked mode. FIG. 5A schematically illustrates a right perspective view (with respect to the shooting direction of the firearm) of a rotating element discharge blocking device 500, and FIG. 5B schematically illustrates a left side view of the rotating element discharge blocking device 500, according to some embodiments of the invention.

It is appreciated that rotating element discharge blocking device 500 (as a safety magazine) according to the invention is adapted to allow a user, operating a firearm, to block the discharge by having the safety mechanism (within the discharge blocking device) in a locked mode, such that the discharge may be enabled only according to the selection by an authorized user with the safety mechanism Therefore, in addition to the existing safety selector on the firearm, rotating element discharge blocking device 500 may provide further means for controlling the firing mode of the firearm (e.g., locked or unlocked mode), further described hereinafter.

Discharge blocking device 500 may include a cover 510 having a structure that is compatible with some commercially available magazines for firearms, for instance having a shape and dimensions corresponding to and adapted to be inserted into a magazine housing of, for example, a Glock® handgun. Discharge blocking device 500 may further include a base 520 that at least partially covers a safety mechanism that is configured to block the discharge.

In some embodiments, base 520 may have a shape protruding with respect to cover 510, such that easy gripping (of base 520) by a user operating the firearm may be allowed for insertion into and removal from the firearm. It is, therefore, appreciated that only with the base 520, the difference from commercially available magazines (for example, a Glock® handgun) may be observed, when the safety magazine is inserted into a firearm.

In some embodiments, cover 510 may have a top segment 530 that is configured to couple with the magazine housing in a compatible firearm. Top segment 530 may have an opening for insertion of cartridges therein (e.g., in a single column or stacked), such that the cartridge that is last inserted partially protrudes through top segment 530 in order to engage the firearm upon coupling with the magazine housing. Thus, operation similar to regular magazines for firearms may be enabled as rotating element discharge blocking device 500 provides accommodation of cartridges, and also engagement of these cartridges with the corresponding firearm upon coupling.

In some embodiments, cover 510 may further include a recess 580 that corresponds in shape to an external magazine catch in order to allow locking the position of rotating element discharge blocking device 500 within the magazine housing once the external magazine catch is inserted thereto. Thus, cover 510 may provide features similar to commercially available firearm magazines, as well as enhanced features for blocking discharge upon the selection of an authorized user.

According to some embodiments, rotating element discharge blocking device 500 may further include a positioning switch 550 which is initially in an “open” state and configured to detect accommodation of rotating element discharge blocking device 500 within the magazine housing. Positioning switch 550 (e.g., spring loaded) may be configured to be capable of protruding from base 520, such that upon insertion into the magazine housing of a firearm, positioning switch 550 may engage the inner wall of the magazine housing and be forced to move into base 520. Upon accommodation within the magazine housing and detection thereof, positioning switch 550 may move back into base 520 and switch to a “closed” state. In some embodiments, at a “closed” state positioning switch 550 may engage a corresponding positioning sensor 555 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 6B) that is configured to provide a signal (e.g., to the central controller) corresponding to detected states.

Upon switching to a “closed” state (i.e., detection of rotating element discharge blocking device 500 within the magazine housing) by positioning switch 550, a rotating locking element 540 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 6A-6B) may be automatically operated to move to a “locked” mode and block the trigger bar of the firearm so as to block any discharge until an authorized user switches to “unlocked” mode. For example, upon insertion into a magazine housing, positioning switch 550 may engage the inner wall of the magazine housing and move back into base 520 to engage the positioning sensor 555 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 6B). A corresponding signal may then be sent to the central controller that rotating element discharge blocking device 500 is in a “closed state” (e.g., within the magazine housing) so as to move rotating projection 542 to a “locked” position blocking the trigger bar. In some embodiments, in a locked position, rotating projection 542 may prevent extraction of rotating element discharge blocking device 500 from the firearm and thereby prevent ejection of discharge blocking device 500 (and replacement with a standard magazine) until returned to unlocked position.

It should be noted that, initially, positioning switch 550 may be in an “open” state and rotating locking element 540 is in “unlocked” mode, such that upon engagement with the magazine housing positioning switch 550 may switch to “closed” state and thereby rotating projection 542 moved to a “locked” mode. Thus, rotating element discharge blocking device 500 may automatically switch to “locked” mode and prevent discharge upon engagement with the magazine housing.

According to some embodiments, rotating element discharge blocking device 500 may further include a user identification segment 521. User identification segment 521 may be operably coupled to the locking mechanism (e.g., inside base 520) within rotating element discharge blocking device 500 configured to disable the blocking, i.e., switch to “unlocked” mode upon identification of an authorized user. User identification segment 521 may include biometric user identification (e.g., fingerprint identification), password identification with a dedicated user interface, wireless communication means such as radio frequency or near field communication, or any other identification means (for example buttons to be pressed by the user). In some embodiments, user identification segment 521 may further include storage of ID data for storing ID data of authorized users. In some embodiments, rotating element discharge blocking device 500 may further include at least one indicator that is configured to indicate the locking mode of rotating element discharge blocking device 500, e.g., “locked”, “unlocked”, “error”, etc. In some embodiments, mode of discharge (and thereby change the indication of the indicator) in order to change the mode of discharge blocking device 500, for instance by placing a finger on a fingerprint sensor and identifying via fingerprint in order to switch the device to an “unlocked” mode. In some embodiments, changing from “unlocked” to “locked” mode may be done automatically by the device when the safety device detects an insertion of safety device into magazine housing.

It should be noted that user identification segment 521 and indicator may be electrically coupled to the locking mechanism so as to allow control of the locking mode of rotating element discharge blocking device 500. In some embodiments, a central controller (e.g., a processing unit) may control the operation of rotating element discharge blocking device 500. Specifically, such a controller may control switching between “locked” and “unlocked” modes based on input from user identification segment 521.

In some non-limiting embodiments, rotating element discharge blocking device 500 may further include a power storage unit, e.g., a battery, configured to provide power for the locking mechanism, so as to allow operation of the mechanical elements. In some embodiments, a battery status indicator may also be provided with the indicators. It is appreciated that, upon insertion into a magazine housing, rotating element discharge blocking device 500 may be activated automatically and set to a “locked” state with a rotating projection 542 of locking element 540, protruding and blocking the trigger bar of the firearm, as further described in FIGS. 7A-7B.

In some embodiments, the locking mechanism (e.g., within base 520) may further include a communication unit capable of sending and receiving wireless data (e.g., via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, or cellular networks). The communication unit may therefore allow a user to set conditions for the discharge blocking device to become locked or unlocked, as may be desired. For example, once the discharge blocking device detects data that indicates that the firearm is inside an authorized area (for instance data from a GPS device), then the locking is removed and the firearm may be used. Alternatively, a dedicated signal may be wirelessly received by the discharge blocking device such that a user may select that in a particular time the locking is removed, no matter who operates the firearm. For example, a training officer at the police academy may wirelessly remove the locking from multiple firearms that are scheduled for practice.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 6A-6B, which show a cross-sectional view of the rotating element discharge blocking device 500 in an unlocked mode. FIG. 6A schematically illustrates a right side cross-sectional view (with respect to the shooting direction of the firearm) of the rotating element discharge blocking device 500, and FIG. 6B schematically illustrates a left side cross-sectional view of the rotating element discharge blocking device 500, according to some embodiments of the invention.

It may be appreciated that a rotating projection 542 of rotating locking element 540, accommodated within rotating element discharge blocking device 500, may be configured to be capable of protruding from top segment 130 to block discharge of the firearm. In some embodiments, rotating locking element 540 may be at least partially accommodated within a wall inside cover 510. When rotating element discharge blocking device 500 is enabled (e.g., in an unlocked mode) the firearm may be immediately operated, where rotating locking element 540 may be configured to allow movement between locked and unlocked states. It is noted that the operation of rotating locking element 540 may be configured to allow rotating locking element 540 to rotatably protrude from rotating element discharge blocking device 500 in order to engage and/or block a compatible trigger bar of the firearm so as to push the trigger bar into a locked position during transition from unlocked state to locked state and thereby block the discharge. It may be appreciated that rotating projection 542 may prevent movement of the trigger bar rearwards, namely towards the back of the barrel of the firearm, and thereby may prevent and/or block the discharge, as further described in FIGS. 7A-7B.

In various embodiments, rotating locking element 540 may be accommodated within the wall of cover 510. In some embodiments, rotating locking element 540 may be a rotatable rod configured to rotate rotating projection 542 between locked and unlocked states the rod and accommodated within a corner of cover 510, thereby occupying minimal space and allowing accommodation of bullets within a dedicated space inside cover 510, thereby allowing use of standard magazines. It may be appreciated that rotating locking element may rotate about an axis that is aligned with the longitudinal dimension of the cover.

In various embodiments, rotating locking element 540 may further include a bottom portion 544 that may be in contact with a sensor 591 that is configured to detect movement of bottom portion 544 between locked and unlocked modes, as further described in FIG. 8. In some embodiments, sensor 591 may be operably coupled to a central controller 610 that is configured to electrically control the operation of discharge blocking device 500. In some embodiments, in case of electrical malfunction, manual operation of rotating element discharge blocking device 500 may also be possible, as further described hereinafter.

According to some embodiments, bottom portion 544 may be also in contact with a switching element 590 that is configured to allow switching between locked and unlocked modes. Switching element 590 may be operationally coupled to a motor 522 (e.g., accommodated within base 120) capable of electrically and/or mechanically moving rotating locking element 540 (as further described in FIG. 8) between locked and unlocked modes. In some embodiments, rotational movement of switching element 590 may move bottom portion 544 coupled thereto and thereby rotate locking element 540 between locked and unlocked states.

According to some embodiments, base 520 may include a bottom cover 620 configured to cover a manual override segment that is configured to allow a user to manually switch between locked and unlocked states, for instance when motor 522 is not responsive. In some embodiments, a user may operate the manual override segment using a dedicated key. In some embodiments, a user may connect an external device to control discharge blocking device 500 (e.g., via USB cable), and thereby control the controller, for example managing user settings or upgrading the software.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 7A-7B, which schematically illustrate a partial perspective view of rotating element discharge blocking device 500 adjacent to a trigger bar 700 in locked and unlocked modes, respectively, according to some embodiments of the invention. In various embodiments, rotation of rotating locking element 540 may rotate rotating projection 542 and thereby allow blocking of trigger bar 700.

It may be appreciated that the user cannot squeeze the trigger to discharge the firearm (in a locked mode) since upon insertion into magazine housing of a compatible firearm, rotating projection 542 of rotating locking element 540 may prevent any backward movement of trigger bar 700. In order to allow discharge, an authorized user may change the state of discharge blocking device 500 from “locked” to “unlocked”, for example by using user identification segment 521 such that rotating projection 542 moves towards cover 510 and no longer projects from the discharge blocking device 500, and then trigger bar 700 may be operated to discharge the firearm 400.

Reference is now made to FIG. 8, which schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of rotating element discharge blocking device 500, showing the locking mechanism within base 520 wherein the cross-section is carried out perpendicular to user identification segment 521, according to some embodiments of the invention. Base 520 may include a motor gear 822 operably coupled to motor 522, wherein central controller 610 is configured to send a signal to motor 522 to rotate motor gear 822. In some embodiments, motor gear 822 may be rotated manually, for instance using the manual override segment.

In some embodiments, motor gear 822 may be coupled to switching element 590 (e.g., a gear) such that rotation of motor gear 822 may consequently rotate switching element 590. In some embodiments, motor gear 822 may be operably coupled to bottom portion 544 of rotating locking element 540 such that rotation of motor gear 822 may also move bottom portion 544. It may be appreciated that FIG. 8 shows rotating element discharge blocking device 500 in an unlocked mode with bottom portion 544 adjacent to motor gear 822, and a dashed line indicated the position of bottom portion 540 b in a locked mode, being adjacent to switching element 590.

In some embodiments, switching from unlocked mode to locked mode may move motor gear 822 (and consequently rotate switching element 590) so as to move bottom portion 544 from being adjacent to motor gear 822 to being adjacent to switching element 590, and vice versa. It may be appreciated that movement of bottom portion 544 may accordingly rotate rotating locking element 540 and thereby rotate rotating projection 542 to switch between locked and unlocked modes.

Reference is now made to FIG. 9, which shows a flow chart for a method of blocking discharge in a firearm, according to some embodiments of the invention. The method may include inserting a cover of the magazine into the magazine housing 910 and then engaging a locking element of the magazine with the trigger bar 920.

Unless explicitly stated, the method embodiments described herein are not constrained to a particular order in time or chronological sequence. Additionally, some of the described method elements can be skipped, or they can be repeated, during a sequence of operations of a method.

Various embodiments have been presented. Each of these embodiments may of course include features from other embodiments presented, and embodiments not specifically described may include various features described herein. 

1. A discharge blocking device compatible with a firearm having a magazine housing and a trigger bar, the discharge blocking device comprising: a cover, having a shape compatible with the magazine housing; a base, covering a locking mechanism; and a locking element, at least partially accommodated in a channel inside the cover, wherein the locking element is configured to allow movement within the channel between locked and unlocked states in order to allow blocking the trigger bar of the firearm.
 2. The discharge blocking device of claim 1, wherein the locking element is adapted to push the trigger bar into locked position during transition from unlocked state to locked state.
 3. The discharge blocking device of claim 1, further comprising a lead screw that is configured to allow lateral movement of the locking element upon rotation of the lead screw.
 4. The discharge blocking device according to claim 1, wherein the cover is configured to couple with the magazine housing.
 5. The discharge blocking device according to claim 1, further comprising a positioning lever configured to allow indication upon accommodation of the discharge blocking device within the magazine housing.
 6. The discharge blocking device according to claim 1, further comprising a dedicated space for accommodation of bullets.
 7. The discharge blocking device according to claim 1, further comprising a wedge configured to allow locking the discharge blocking device to the magazine housing.
 8. The discharge blocking device according to claim 7, wherein the wedge is movable by movement of the locking element.
 9. The discharge blocking device according to claim 1, further comprising at least one user identification unit.
 10. The discharge blocking device according to claim 9, wherein the user identification unit comprises biometric identification.
 11. The discharge blocking device according to claim 9, further comprising a mechanical identification override device.
 12. The discharge blocking device according to claim 1, wherein the locking element is configured to lock the device to the firearm in a locked state.
 13. A method for locking a magazine to a firearm and preventing accidental discharge, the firearm having a magazine housing and a trigger bar, and the method comprising: inserting a cover of the magazine into the magazine housing; and engaging a locking element of the magazine with the trigger bar; wherein the locking element is configured to allow blocking the trigger bar upon engagement therewith.
 14. A discharge blocking device compatible with a firearm having a magazine housing and a trigger bar, the discharge blocking device comprising: a cover, having a shape compatible with the magazine housing; a base, covering a locking mechanism; and a rotating locking element, having a blocking segment and at least partially accommodated inside the wall of the cover, wherein the rotating locking element is configured to at least partially rotate between locked and unlocked states about an axis that is aligned with the longitudinal dimension of the cover, in order to allow blocking the trigger bar of the firearm with the blocking segment.
 15. The discharge blocking device according to claim 15, wherein the locking element is configured to lock the device to the firearm in a locked state.
 16. The discharge blocking device according to claim 15, wherein the rotating locking element comprises a rotating projection that is configured to rotate with rotation of the rotating locking element, and also configured to project from the cover to block the trigger bar.
 17. The discharge blocking device according to claim 15, wherein the rotating locking element comprises a bottom portion operably coupled to a locking mechanism within the base, and wherein movement of the bottom portion rotates the rotating locking element.
 18. The discharge blocking device according to claim 17, wherein the base comprises at least one gear coupled to a motor, and wherein the at least one gear is capable of moving the bottom portion between locked and unlocked states.
 19. The discharge blocking device according to claim 15, wherein the cover is configured to couple with the magazine housing.
 20. The discharge blocking device according to claim 15, further comprising a positioning switch configured to allow indication upon accommodation of the discharge blocking device within the magazine housing. 